If I want to rely on the alimony or child support that I or my co-signer receive in my application for a student loan, does a creditor have to consider that income?

A creditor can consider the amount of such income and likelihood that it will continue, as with all other forms of income. In determining this, a creditor may consider factors such as whether there is a written agreement or court decree, how long and how regularly you or your co-signer have been receiving payments, and the creditworthiness of the payor when that information is available.